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Set in an alternate universe during the 1950s, Monochroma tells the story of a boy and his brother who witness a horrific crime committed by an evil corporation.

The brothers must now survive six hours of devilishly clever puzzles in order to save their world from tyranny.

Turkish developers Nowhere Studios has launched a Kickstarter campaign and is seeking $80,000 in completion funds after 18 months of self-funded, full-time development.

Inspired by current events as well as the developers’ childhood memories of moving from the countryside to Istanbul, Monochroma tells its story without any cut-scenes, narration, or in-game text. Players learn about the environment and follow the story through carefully crafted black-and-white visuals with splashes of red. As a result, the story is instantly understandable by players of all nationalities – without any localization required. More so, the puzzles in Monochroma take a more realistic approach by blending in with the environment. Accurate physics simulation ensures that interaction (pushing/pulling objects, sliding, jumping) always feels right.

Another Monochroma trademark is the relationship between the two brothers. Early in the game, the younger brother injures his leg after a bad fall and now must be carried by his older sibling. At times, the player needs to temporarily stop carrying him in order to solve puzzles. However he can only be placed near safe, bright areas—because like most kids, he’s afraid of the dark! This gameplay mechanic defines Monochroma as a cerebral, methodical puzzle game that rewards players who are caring and brave at the same time. Being a responsible older sibling is mandatory—just as in real life.

“This is it,” says Burak Tezateşer, Executive Producer of Monochroma. “We are running out of time. We need everyone who believes that games can be more than formulaic blockbusters or overgrown amusement rides. Talk to your friends, co-workers, and family members. Help us change the industry with a game that puts gameplay, atmosphere, and storytelling above focus tests and price targets—and share your vision with us.”

To participate, fans must come up with a video of any length about Monochroma. It can be a Let’s Play, a new teaser, a music video, or even an experimental short set in the Monochroma universe. Once the video is complete, entrants should post it to YouTube with a link to the Kickstarter campaign and send an email to info@nowherestudios.com with the YouTube URL and contact information. Participants are free to use the game’s Main Theme by psychedelic folk band Gevende.